Items filtered by date: September 2025

Over-pronation occurs when the foot rolls too far inward with each step, placing excess stress on the arch, ankle, and surrounding soft tissues. Instead of evenly distributing weight across the foot, the inward roll causes the inner edge of the foot and big toe to bear too much pressure. This can flatten the arch, limit shock absorption, and strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet and ankles. Over time, over-pronation may contribute to painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, heel pain, ankle sprains, and posterior tibial tendon problems. Over-pronation is often linked to flat feet, but can also develop from weak or imbalanced muscles, loose ligaments, or excessive flexibility in the foot and ankle. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait and foot posture, prescribe custom orthotics, recommend supportive bracing, or discuss surgery for severe cases. If you are experiencing foot pain, especially after activity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A lump on the foot can cause discomfort and make walking difficult. One common reason is a plantar fibroma, which is a firm knot that grows in the arch of the foot along the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that stretches from the heel to the toes. This lump is not cancerous, but it can be painful when shoes press against it or when standing for long periods. The exact cause of a plantar fibroma is not always known, but it may form after small injuries to the plantar fascia. Some lumps stay the same size, while others increase in size over time. A podiatrist can confirm the source of the fibroma through an exam and may suggest custom shoe inserts to reduce pressure, steroid injections to ease pain, or, in more severe cases, surgery to remove the lump. If you have a lump on your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Darron Barrus, DPM of Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is a form of nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels, and it often affects the feet, toes, and ankles. Diabetic patients may experience burning pain, tingling, numbness, or increased sensitivity, but one of the greatest dangers is the gradual loss of protective sensation. Without the ability to feel pain or pressure, small cuts, blisters, or irritation may go unnoticed, and lead to infections or ulcers. Poor circulation, common in diabetes, further slows healing and raises the risk of tissue breakdown and possible limb loss, if infections are not addressed. Weakened nerves also can alter foot structure, resulting in deformities or instability that place even more stress on the joints and skin. A podiatrist can identify early signs of neuropathy, evaluate nerve and vascular health, and provide treatment to protect the feet. If you have symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for ongoing help in managing this serious condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When examining the feet of an elderly patient, a podiatrist takes a careful and thorough approach. The skin is checked first for dryness, thinning, wounds, or fungal infections that often occur with age. Nails are inspected for thickness, discoloration, and signs of ingrowth. Circulation is evaluated by feeling for pulses in the feet and ankles, since reduced blood flow can slow healing. Sensation is tested with light touch or vibration to detect neuropathy, a common issue in seniors. The structure of the foot is also observed, noting changes such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat arches that may affect balance and mobility. Additionally, pressure points from shoes are identified to prevent ulcers, and gait may be assessed to look for instability. Each part of the exam helps guide recommendations for comfort, safety, and ongoing care. For the best protection and treatment of elderly feet, it is suggested that you regularly visit a podiatrist.

If you need your feet checked, contact Darron Barrus, DPM of Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Yoga is an effective way to build strength and stability in the feet while improving overall balance. Certain poses engage the small muscles of the feet and ankles, helping to support proper alignment and reduce the risk of injury. Regular practice can increase flexibility, enhance circulation, and relieve tension that often builds up from daily activities or improper footwear. Stronger feet contribute to better posture and movement, which benefits the entire body. A podiatrist can assess foot function, address pain, and recommend specific exercises or treatments to complement yoga practice. If you have any type of foot pain, or want to improve foot health and stability, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.